Opposition Leaders declare June 25 ‘Public holiday’ in commemoration of those killed during the Gen Z protest

DAP – K party leader Eugene Wamalwa and Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka 

//Photo courtesy 

Opposition leaders Rigathi Gachagua and Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka have announced June 25 as a ‘public holiday ‘ and urged Kenyans to boycott work on that day in honour of young protesters killed during the 2024 anti-government demonstrations.

Addressing roadside rallies in Voi, Taita Taveta County, on Saturday, June 7, Kalonzo called for a national shutdown to mark the anniversary of the protests that took place outside Parliament during opposition to the Finance Bill, 2024.

“I want to declare that June 25 will be a public holiday for all Kenyans in honour of our Gen Zs who were killed when they tried to submit a petition to Parliament,” said Kalonzo.

At least five people were reported dead after police opened fire during the protests, after demonstrators stormed Parliament in protest against tax proposals.

Kalonzo said the day would be commemorated annually to remember the youth-led movement, which was largely organised through digital platforms.

“June 25 will be a liberation day to commemorate the sacrifice of our Gen Zs who sought to liberate this country,” he said.

Gachagua and Kalonzo urged citizens across the country to stay at home on that day.

Although opposition leaders do not hold the legal mandate to declare a public holiday, previous calls for such action by Orange Democractic Movement party leader Raila Odinga have led to disruptions in major towns during protest events.